Temecula, CA Swimming Pools & Spas: Safety Rules (2026)

Beyond barrier requirements, residential pool safety in Temecula is governed by several overlapping standards. The federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act (15 USC §8001) requires VGB-certified anti-entrapment drain covers and, on single-main-drain pools, secondary anti-entrapment systems (safety vacuum release system, suction-limiting vent system, or similar). All electrical bonding must comply with NEC/CEC Article 680: equipotential bonding grid in the deck, bonded metal components, GFCI protection on receptacles within 20 feet, and underwater lighting at low voltage with bonding. California Code of Regulations Title 22 §65501 et seq. governs public pools (HOA, apartment, gym, hotel) — Temecula has many HOA pools across master-planned communities. Public pools require: a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) on staff, daily chemistry logs, depth markings every 4 feet around the perimeter, 'No Diving' signs in shallow water, life-saving equipment (ring buoy, reaching pole), emergency phone, posted operating rules, posted health code, and routine inspections by Riverside County Environmental Health. Diving boards/slides require minimum depth and clearance per NSPI/APSP standards. Children under 14 may not be at a public pool without an adult under most HOA rules. Temecula also enforces noise standards (TMC §9.20) for pool pumps and equipment — aim equipment away from neighbor bedrooms.